The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed for a court order to stop the Senate from further suspending or taking any disciplinary action against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for peacefully exercising her fundamental human rights.
SERAP argued that her suspension violates the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights agreements. The group cited Section 39 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to freedom of expression, and Article 13 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which protects citizens’ right to political participation.
“The unlawful restriction of Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s right to freedom of expression has indirectly violated Nigerians’ right to receive information and ideas and seriously undermined the right of her constituency to political participation,” SERAP stated.
The organization also expressed concern over the suspension’s potential to discourage lawmakers from expressing dissenting opinions.
“A higher degree of tolerance is expected for political speech, particularly when directed towards government officials, including members of the Senate,” SERAP added.
